Induction heating device, operating method, production line, use of such induction heating device, use of such operating method, and use of such production line

Abstract

The present invention relates to an induction heating device for inductively heating a metal product, comprising at least one resonant circuit including a coil for generating a magnetic field that can interact with the metal product within the operating range of the coil, and a mechanical direction capable of transporting the metal product through the operating range, wherein the coil is supported and positioned so as to be displaceable relative to the metal product in a direction laterally with respect to the mechanical direction, and the induction heating device is characterized in that the coil is adjustable in flow distance relative to the surface side of the metal product facing the coil, already before and / or while the metal product enters the coil, and the flow distance is capable of generating uniform electrical efficiency along the metal product.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an induction heating device for inductively heating a metal article, having at least one resonant circuit including a coil for generating a magnetic field capable of interacting with a metal article within an operating range of the coil, and a mechanical direction in which the metal article can be conveyed through the operating range, wherein the coil is supported and arranged transversely to the mechanical direction and displaceable with respect to the metal article.

[0002] In addition, the present invention relates to an operating method for inductively heating a metal article using the induction heating device, wherein the metal article passes through at least one coil of the induction heating device and is heat-treated by a magnetic field generated using the at least one coil.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a production line for manufacturing and / or processing metal articles, particularly semi-finished products and / or primary products and / or intermediate products and / or products made of iron-based materials, steel-based materials, and / or non-ferrous metal materials.

[0004] The present invention also relates to the use of such an induction heating device.

[0005] The present invention also relates to the use of such an operating method.

[0006] In addition, the present invention also relates to the use of such a production line.

Background Art

[0007] Conventional induction heating devices are known from the prior art, particularly in relation to production lines for the manufacture and / or processing of semi-finished products and / or primary products and / or intermediate products and / or products made of iron-based materials, steel-based materials, and / or non-ferrous metal materials.

[0008] In this case, a known induction heating apparatus for heating a passing metal object is equipped with coils fixed to and / or, in particular, adjustable vertically, and the metal object passes through each coil in the mechanical direction of the induction heating apparatus.

[0009] In induction heating devices with a fixed coil, the distance between the fixed coil and the metal object is always configured so that even the largest possible metal object, viewed lateral to the conveying plane of each induction heating device, does not collide with the fixed coil. This means that the coil must always be separated from the metal object by the maximum possible safety distance. However, this set safety distance significantly reduces the achievable electrical efficiency of each induction heating device.

[0010] To overcome the shortcomings of this, other induction heating devices have vertically adjustable coils, i.e., coils that can be adjusted vertically. In this way, the vertically adjustable coils are moved to a safe position before the metal part reaches each coil, and in this safe position, it is ensured that the metal part will not collide with each coil, regardless of the positional tolerances and / or shape tolerances inherent in the metal part. Often, the leading edge of a metal part, in particular, may have significant shape deviations as a result of, for example, a preceding manufacturing process, and these shape deviations may deviate significantly from the shape of the rest of the metal part, for example, from a previously performed primary forming process and / or deformation process or similar.

[0011] In this regard, in induction heating devices with adjustable coils, an additional safety distance (safe position) is proactively set for the coils relative to the surface of the metal object until at least the leading edge of the metal object has passed through each coil or its operating range. Only after the leading edge of the metal object has passed through each coil does the coil displace to its actual operating position. The drawback here is that the operating distance between the coil and the metal object can vary considerably as a result of, for example, at least smaller undesirable positional tolerances and / or shape tolerances behind the leading edge of the metal object, and as a result, the magnetic field generated by the coils cannot uniformly and continuously heat the metal object with the desired, and especially optimal, electrical efficiency.

[0012] In particular, the initial displacement of the coil to a safe position almost always leads to weaker heating of the leading range than of the middle range of other metal parts adjacent to the leading range.

[0013] The same always applies to the tail range of a metal part, which in turn connects to the midrange of the metal part. Here again, larger expected shape tolerances and / or positional tolerances often cause the adjustable coil to move back to a safe position.

[0014] Consequently, metal parts are often heated unevenly in parts, and these metal parts typically enter the production line with a slightly lower temperature range at the beginning or end. As a result, the pre-existing unevenness is not merely retained but amplified, often leading to the material in the beginning or end range having a lower quality after processing following heating, making the material unsuitable for use.

[0015] Furthermore, general production lines for the manufacture and / or processing of semi-finished products and / or primary products and / or intermediate products and / or finished products made of ferrous materials, steel materials and / or non-ferrous metal materials are known from the prior art. These typically consist of a plurality of apparatus in which primary products and / or intermediate products and / or finished products are each subjected to one or more method steps. The apparatus may be, for example, heating or cooling apparatus, conveying apparatus, molding apparatus, cleaning apparatus, chemical processing apparatus, surface coating apparatus, cutting apparatus or joining apparatus, and combinations thereof. The method steps may be, for example, raising or lowering temperature, conveying, deformation processing, cleaning, chemical processing, surface coating, cutting or joining, and combinations thereof. [Overview of the project]

[0016] The problem that this invention is based on is to provide an improved or alternative form to the prior art. In particular, the problem that this invention is based on is to advantageously improve the production volume of product parts or product materials in a general induction heating apparatus.

[0017] The problem of the present invention is solved by an induction heating device for heating a metal product, having at least one resonant circuit including a coil for generating a magnetic field that can interact with the metal product within the operating range of the coil, and a mechanical direction capable of transporting the metal product through the operating range, wherein the coil is supported and positioned so as to be displaceable with respect to the metal product in a direction laterally with respect to the mechanical direction, and the coil is adjustable in flow distance with respect to the surface side of the metal product facing the coil, already before and / or while the metal product enters the coil, and the flow distance is used to generate uniform electrical efficiency along the metal product.

[0018] By generating uniform electrical efficiency along the metal product, particularly significantly more uniform than conventional induction heating devices, the leading range, preferably the trailing range, can be processed with the same efficiency as the rest of the metal product. This alone can significantly improve the production volume of the product part or product material.

[0019] At this point, advantageously, as the leading edge of the metal part enters the operating range at the latest, the coil is brought to an operating distance, particularly an optimal operating distance, i.e., a flow distance, and using this flow distance, the leading edge can be heat-treated in the same way as, or at least substantially the same way as, the rest of the metal part.

[0020] This allows for seamless and uniform heating of the metal part, including its leading and preferably trailing ranges, resulting in a structurally simpler and more significant improvement in the available production volume of product parts or product materials in the induction heating device and, consequently, in the production line equipped with it.

[0021] Similarly, in order to achieve improved production volumes, it is necessary to install additional processing equipment, for example, before the induction heating device to remove undesirable shape defects in the metal parts before they finally reach the induction heating device.

[0022] In any case, the induction heating apparatus according to the present invention enables more essentially uniform heat treatment of metal parts than conventional induction heating apparatuses. This is because, in particular, in conventional induction heating apparatuses with displaceable coils, the coil is initially displaced to a safe position before and during the entry of the metal part to eliminate the risk of collision with the leading range of the metal part. Collisions between the metal part and the coil result in damage to the induction heating apparatus, which often leads to repairs and associated production stoppages. In such safe positions, the coil often has a safety distance of more than 100 mm, or more than 200 mm, or often more, from the product to ensure collision avoidance. However, when the coil is brought to the corresponding safe position, the leading range of the metal part is often not properly heat-treated (at best due to heat conduction from the central range of the product behind it) and may become production waste.

[0023] In such a safe position, induction heating is preferably not operating. In other words, the induction heating device or at least one of its resonant circuits, or more precisely, one or more associated coils, has not yet been inductively activated in the leading range of the metal part in or as it enters the induction heating device. In this respect, neither such leading range nor the end range of the metal part is actively heat-treated for the purpose.

[0024] Here, the drawback is eliminated because the induction heating device is already inductively operated (operating position) before or by the entry of the metal object into the induction heating device, particularly before or by its entry into the operating range of at least one coil.

[0025] The induction heating apparatus according to the present invention avoids the aforementioned drawbacks and significantly improves the production volume of product parts or product materials.

[0026] In either case, it is advantageous if the coil is already adjustable in flow distance relative to the surface side of the metal part, taking into account the deformation of the leading range of the metal part, either within the coil of the metal part or before and / or during entry into the operating range of the coil. As already mentioned above, this avoids the risk of collision between the coil and the product during simultaneous and uniform heating of the metal part (leading range - middle range - possibly trailing range).

[0027] First, it should be noted that in this application, indefinite articles and expressions of an indefinite number such as "one..." and "two..." should, in most cases, be interpreted as "at least one..." and "at least two..." unless it is clear from the context of a particular part or a specific sentence that only "just one..." and "just two..." are intended.

[0028] Here, in the present application, it should be noted that the expression "particularly" should always be understood as introducing a suitable feature as an option with this expression. This expression should not be understood in the meanings of "moreover" and "that is".

[0029] The expression "leading range" herein represents the range in front of the metal product as viewed in the conveying direction. The size or length of such a leading range may vary. For example, the length of the leading range may depend on the material thickness of the metal product. For example, the leading range has a length of 100 mm or 150 mm or more measured from the front end face of the metal product. For example, the size or length of the leading range may depend on, for example, the type of deformation caused by the separation process of the material strand. Particularly, the leading range may also have a ski plate-like deformation or the like.

[0030] The expression "trailing range" herein represents the range behind the metal product as viewed in the conveying direction. Such a configuration is possible in the leading range as described above, and a length of 100 mm or 150 mm or more may extend when measured from the rear end face of the metal product.

[0031] Due to such similarity, even if the trailing range is similarly included, hereinafter, only the leading range will be briefly described for simplicity.

[0032] The term "uniform electrical efficiency" in the sense of the present invention represents one or more electrical efficiencies that extend over the length of the metal product, particularly its entire length, and behave or can be adjusted as uniformly as possible over the entire length of the metal product.

[0033] Here, the uniform electrical efficiency, or the uniform electrical efficiency compared to the prior art, can be composed of a number of electrical partial efficiencies of the metal product conveyed through the operating range of the coil, and the partial efficiencies, particularly, the partial efficiencies regarding the leading range and / or the trailing range of the metal product and the range (central range) disposed between these of the metal product, can be defined in relation to the extension range of the metal product in the longitudinal direction of the metal product, respectively.

[0034] Generally, in the sense of the present invention, electrical efficiency is defined by the ratio between the electrical energy applied to the coil and the heat input generated in the metal product as a result.

[0035] In the context of this invention, electrical efficiency is preferably determined by the flow distance, or operating distance, adjusted between the coil and the metal part. This is typically the smallest possible operating distance between the coil and the corresponding, i.e., the nearest, metal part surface (the optimal flow distance to enable optimal efficiency). In this case, a boundary condition for the flow distance is that no undesirable collisions should occur between the coil and the metal part, or between the surface of the metal part facing the coil.

[0036] In the context of this invention, the term "flow distance" essentially represents the operating distance or processing distance between the coil and the metal product, over which the metal product is uniformly heat-treated using the magnetic field generated by the coil.

[0037] In particular, the term "flow distance" in this invention refers to an operating distance or processing distance that is the same in the leading range and the subsequent central range of a metal product, so that both the leading range and the subsequent central range can be heat-treated uniformly.

[0038] In this case, the value for flow distance can be understood as the minimum distance between the coil and the metal part, particularly over the extension of the coil's processing range.

[0039] In this case, the operating distance is selected to be as small as possible so that the most desirable electrical efficiency between the coil and the metal part can be achieved; this means that a minimum distance is preferably set between the coil and the metal part without significant contact occurring between them.

[0040] The flow distance is already operated or adjusted in the leading range of the metal part and is preferably kept constant up to the trailing range of the metal part, preferably continuously and without interruption.

[0041] In other words, the coil here traces the surface profile of the opposing metal object with a constant operating distance or uniform flow distance.

[0042] In this case, the coil preferably follows the height and depth of the surface profile of the metal part from the end face side of the metal part that enters the coil's operating range, and as a result, the flow distance that is essentially maintained along the longitudinal extension of the metal part is already adjusted even in the leading range.

[0043] In this regard, in the sense of the present invention, the flow distance is an equal or uniform operating distance, and in order to maintain a uniform flow distance constant along the metal part even when geometric changes occur in the metal part, particularly geometric changes in the metal part within the shape tolerance and / or position tolerance of the metal part, the coil is in "flow" with respect to the surface profile of the metal part with respect to vertical coil displacement.

[0044] Therefore, it is possible to reliably ensure that the leading edge and the remaining portion of the metal part are heated uniformly, or more uniformly than in conventional methods.

[0045] If the coils and metal parts are not yet overlapping, the flow distance can be understood as a pre-specified, specified, and / or identifiable flow distance.

[0046] With respect to the flow distance which is advantageous in the sense of the present invention, independently of other features of the present invention, an induction heating device for induction heating a metal product is advantageous, having at least one resonant circuit including a coil for generating a magnetic field that can interact with a metal product within the operating range of the coil, and a mechanical direction capable of transporting the metal product through the operating range, wherein the coil is supported and positioned so as to be displaceable with respect to the metal product in a direction laterally with respect to the mechanical direction, and the induction heating device is characterized in that the coil is adjusted to the surface of the metal product facing the coil before the metal product enters the coil and / or while the metal product enters, within a set flow distance, both in the leading range of the metal product and in the central range of the metal product positioned subsequently in the leading range.

[0047] This ideally allows for the adjustment and maintenance of a uniform flow distance between the coil and the metal part along the entire length of the metal part, making it possible to heat-treat the metal part with particularly uniform heat input along its entire length.

[0048] In this regard, uniform electrical efficiency along the entire metal product is not at all necessary in the case of partial heating requirements, and uniform flow distance across the entire metal product is also not necessary. Therefore, the metal product is preferably heat-treated not only partially but continuously.

[0049] The present invention enables significantly improved production volumes, particularly for metal products that are to be processed in batches.

[0050] In the context of this invention, the term "metallic product" refers to any product that can be heated by induction, such as bands, slabs, bars or similar items, and in particular conductive semi-finished products, primary products, intermediate products or finished products made of iron, steel and / or non-ferrous metal materials.

[0051] Here, let me further clarify that the expression "during or between" also includes the state after the metal part or its leading range has entered the coil or the coil's operating range.

[0052] However, if the induction heating device is characterized in that the coil can be adjusted in terms of flow distance relative to opposing surfaces of the metal product as it passes through, and that uniform electrical efficiency can be generated along the metal product using said flow distance, then the induction heating device according to the present invention can be advantageously used in relation to continuously transported metal products, i.e., metal "endless products".

[0053] In any case, this induction heating device makes it possible not only to partially adjust the distance between the coil and the metal part, but also to conveniently and continuously adjust it along the entire length of the metal part. In particular, shape tolerances and position tolerances can be taken into consideration along the entire length of the metal part, and can be advantageously compensated for by the appropriate displacement of the coil relative to the metal part.

[0054] Therefore, advantageously, this induction heating device enables the setting of a desired, particularly optimal, or minimum distance (flow distance) between the coil and the metal object in the leading range of the metal object, so that the metal object can be heated as uniformly as possible, particularly in its end range, more precisely in its leading range, and possibly in its tail range, especially in the central range of the metal object.

[0055] Ideally, the coil can be optimally adjusted to the metal part along its entire length, so the optimal distance between the coil and the metal part is not only adjustable behind a potentially heavily deformed leading range, without causing significant contact between the coil and the metal part, for optimal electrical efficiency in the material.

[0056] This allows the metal product to be subjected to uniform heat input along its entire length, which significantly reduces the amount of material waste.

[0057] In other words, with respect to the material passing through the induction heating device, this means that the resonant circuit of the induction heating device, particularly its coil, can always be maintained at an optimal distance from the metal object along its entire length, depending on the geometry of the metal object.

[0058] As a result, the coil of this induction heating device is controllable in a closed loop or open loop so that the coil can always adjust or maintain a desired or optimal distance from the metal object, taking into account deformation of the metal object, particularly the leading and / or trailing ranges of the metal object, along its entire length.

[0059] In the context of this invention, the terms "overall length" or "total length" include not only the central range between the leading and trailing ranges of the metal product, but also explicitly encompass the leading or trailing range from the leading end face to the trailing end face of the metal product.

[0060] Here, when the term "minimum distance" is used, it can be understood as the operating distance (particularly the leading distance and trailing distance or flow distance) between each coil and the metalwork to be processed, and this operating distance can be kept constant, in particular, using the variable operating position of the coil in the induction heating device, or using positional tolerances and / or shape tolerances at subsequent operating positions.

[0061] In this regard, in order to achieve the most uniform heat input possible along the longest possible longitudinal portion of the metal product, this induction heating device allows the coil to occupy multiple different operating positions relative to the metal product.

[0062] This preferably also applies to the operating distance (tail distance) between the tail range and the center range of the metal part.

[0063] If the operating distance between the coil and the surface product is specified and the same along the metal product, it is possible to achieve particularly uniform electrical efficiency along the metal product.

[0064] Therefore, it can be guaranteed that the coil can always process metal objects favorably with uniform electrical efficiency, both in the leading range and the subsequent middle range.

[0065] This also applies to the operating distance between the tail range and the center range of a metal part.

[0066] This makes it possible to heat the metal part very uniformly, both in the leading range and the subsequent central range.

[0067] On the other hand, this leads to a significant reduction in production losses in this induction device, and therefore to a significant increase in production volume.

[0068] Furthermore, according to the present invention, an "induction heating device" is understood to be a device configured to use electrical energy to induce heating of a metal object.

[0069] The temperature rise of primary products and / or intermediate products and / or finished products is essential for many method steps and is therefore an essential method step in the processing of metal products.

[0070] For this purpose, the induction heating apparatus according to the present invention is particularly useful, and each induction heating apparatus can be used at various points in a production line for manufacturing and / or processing metal products, or in a roller conveyor of a production line.

[0071] In induction heating using an induction heating device, the resonant circuit is excited by oscillation, particularly in the intermediate frequency range.

[0072] Typically, for this purpose, the power supply voltage, such as a single-phase AC voltage or a multi-phase AC voltage, is first rectified and smoothed, and a DC voltage that excites the resonant circuit is supplied to the inverter.

[0073] Since heat is generated within the metal object itself, and there is no need to introduce heat to the surface of the metal object from the outside by conduction, convection, and / or radiation, advantageously, this induction heating device can directly heat the metal object.

[0074] In the context of this invention, "resonant circuit" is understood to mean a device for inductively heating a metal object. In this case, the resonant circuit includes at least one coil and one capacitor device.

[0075] In the context of the present invention, at least one first resonant circuit can be positioned above the metal object to be heated, or above a transport section or roller conveyor associated therewith, and the metal object is transported along the transport section or roller conveyor in a specified manner.

[0076] In this case, the resonant circuit is further characterized by the operating range or electrical range over which the magnetic field can interact with the metal object.

[0077] In this regard, such a first coil or upper coil of the induction heating device can be positioned above the operating range or above the metal object to be heated.

[0078] Furthermore, the induction heating apparatus may include at least one second resonant circuit having at least one second coil, which is located below the operating range or below the metal product to be heated, and therefore below the resonant circuit, and also below the conveying section or roller conveyor of a production line for manufacturing and / or processing semi-finished products and / or primary and / or intermediate and / or finished products made of ferrous materials, steel materials and / or non-ferrous metal materials.

[0079] The coil of an induction heating device may have less than one complete turn, one complete turn, and / or more than one complete turn, especially two or more turns, three or more turns, or four or more turns.

[0080] The portion of the coil that acts on the metal object preferably has a meandering, U-shaped, or hairpin-shaped geometric form.

[0081] In either case, each coil is positioned to one side relative to the material to be heated and can be actuated or moved relative to the metal object so that the desired electrical efficiency can be precisely adjusted.

[0082] The interaction between a metal object and an alternating magnetic field can be brought about by longitudinal magnetic field induction and / or transverse magnetic field induction. In longitudinal magnetic field induction, the magnetic field lines extend substantially along the longitudinal extension of the metal object. In transverse magnetic field induction, the magnetic field lines in the metal object extend substantially in the transverse direction of the metal object, particularly in the thickness direction and / or width direction of the metal object.

[0083] If the metal object is, for example, a thin metal sheet, then in the case of transverse magnetic field induction, magnetic field lines can substantially enter the metal sheet in the thickness direction and exit the metal sheet again in the thickness direction.

[0084] Advantageously, the induction heating device includes an energy supply device for supplying electrical energy to a resonant circuit, or the induction heating device includes at least suitable connecting means for connecting to such an energy supply device.

[0085] In the context of this invention, the term "energy supply device" is understood to mean a device configured to supply electrical energy, in particular a current having an appropriate current intensity, an appropriate voltage, and / or an appropriate frequency, for operating at least one resonant circuit.

[0086] A suitable energy supply device can be configured to provide electrical energy to multiple resonant circuits, particularly at least two, three, four, five, six, or more resonant circuits.

[0087] It goes without saying that the electrical connection between the energy supply device and one or more resonant circuits of this induction heating device can be structurally configured in various known ways, for example, using a suitable busbar or similar. However, in appropriately selected connection structures, power supply lines via cable connections are also possible.

[0088] Furthermore, the capacitor device provided in relation to this induction heating device, particularly in relation to its resonant circuit, can also have a different configuration.

[0089] For example, a capacitor device may comprise a single capacitor or multiple capacitors. In the latter variation, the multiple capacitors are preferably connected in parallel with each other.

[0090] This induction heating device can be equipped with one coil or, in the case of multiple coils, a single capacitor device electrically connected to it.

[0091] In particular, in the case of multiple induction coils, multiple capacitor devices can be provided in the induction heating device, and optionally, exactly one capacitor device is assigned to each coil, and such capacitor device can have a single capacitor or multiple capacitors, preferably multiple capacitors connected in parallel.

[0092] Alternatively, it is also possible to assign multiple coils to a single capacitor.

[0093] In this induction heating device, a structure in which exactly one coil is electrically assigned to one capacitor device, and furthermore, multiple coils are electrically assigned to another capacitor device, can also be advantageously realized.

[0094] In this case, it is possible to implement various configuration variations depending on the application needs.

[0095] Furthermore, the induction heating apparatus may include, or be connected to, an adjustment device for adjusting the coil, particularly for vertical adjustment, and the term “adjustment device” refers to a device capable of displacing the coil as necessary relative to a metal object or relative to the operation or range of action of the induction heating apparatus.

[0096] The adjustment device may be equipped with one or more hydraulic cylinders for linear adjustment, a rack drive unit, a toggle lever, or similar components for operation.

[0097] A coil "supported and positioned so as to be displaceable laterally with respect to the machine direction" is understood to mean that the coil is supported so as to be displaceable laterally, vertically and / or horizontally with respect to the machine direction.

[0098] Particularly preferably, the coil is supported perpendicular to the machine direction in order to adjust the flow distance.

[0099] In this regard, the term "perpendicular" in the sense of the present invention refers to the direction lateral to the machine direction, which is the main conveying direction of the metal product.

[0100] Preferably, the coil is supported so as to be displaceable in a horizontal direction lateral to the machine direction, thereby allowing the coil to be removed from a designated production line, particularly for maintenance work.

[0101] In particular, each coil is supported and positioned so as to be height-adjustable relative to the metal product, especially with respect to its thickness extension, and for such height adjustment, the coil is supported so as to be displaceable laterally relative to the metal product, or preferably perpendicular to the metal product or the transport section or conveying section or roller conveyor of the production line.

[0102] Here, the term "height adjustment" refers to the lateral displacement of each coil, independent of the spatial orientation in the direction of the machine or the transport section in which the metal parts are transported.

[0103] In this respect, if the machine is oriented so as to extend essentially horizontally, it is possible to adjust the height vertically.

[0104] In the context of this invention, if the machine is oriented to extend more vertically, it is possible to set a more horizontal height adjustment.

[0105] In this regard, the term "perpendicular" in the sense of the present invention refers to the direction lateral to the machine direction, which is the main conveying direction of the metal product.

[0106] However, typically, this refers to the vertical positioning of the coil.

[0107] If the electrical efficiency between the coil and the metal part is always the same along the longitudinal length of the metal part, or if it has a deviation of at most 20%, preferably 10%, or particularly preferably 5%, then it is possible to reliably guarantee improved production volume.

[0108] Optionally, the deviation in electrical efficiency between the coil and the metal product in the longitudinal range of the metal product may be 7.5% or less, preferably 2.5% or less, or particularly preferably 1% or less, and the above description may include the leading range, as well as the middle and trailing ranges.

[0109] Preferably, with respect to the entire length of the metal product, at least one partial electrical efficiency in the leading range, at least one partial electrical efficiency behind the leading range (the middle range of the metal product), and ideally at least one partial electrical efficiency in the trailing range are equal or identical. However, even with some deviation in the partial electrical efficiency, it is possible to achieve good results in terms of production volume.

[0110] In any case, this makes it possible to set a very uniform electrical efficiency along the entire length of the metal object.

[0111] If the electrical efficiency between the coil and the metal product is the same along the metal product, or at least along a portion of the metal product, or has a deviation of at most 20% or less, preferably 10% or less, and particularly preferably 5% or less, and if the preferred portion including the leading range accounts for at least 10% or 20%, preferably 30% or more, of the total length of the metal product, then the production volume can be significantly improved.

[0112] By using this induction heating device, it becomes possible to adjust the leading edge and partially remaining area of ​​a metal product relative to each other to heat it evenly or uniformly, thereby enabling a significant improvement in production volume compared to conventional technology.

[0113] It has often been found to be purposeful if the electrical efficiency between the coil and the metal part is the same along the metal part, or at least along a portion of the metal part, or has a deviation of at most 20% or less, preferably 10% or less, and particularly preferably 5% or less, and the preferred portion including the leading range extends at least 200 mm, 500 mm, or 1000 mm behind the leading range.

[0114] It has been found that if the electrical efficiency is the same, for example, over the first 1000 mm of a metal product (preferably starting from the front end surface of the metal product), or if the deviation is 20% or less, preferably 10% or less, and particularly preferably 5% or less, then it is possible to significantly improve the production volume in the sense of the present invention.

[0115] However, because the leading edge can be heated uniformly to the rest of the metal part, it is possible to significantly improve production volume by harmonizing the electrical efficiency acting on the leading edge with the electrical efficiency of the metal part up to 200 mm behind the leading edge.

[0116] If the flow distance in the leading and / or trailing ranges is 80 mm or less, preferably 60 mm or less, or particularly preferably 40 mm or less, then high collision safety for the coil and improved heat treatment of the leading range can be achieved simultaneously.

[0117] If the flow distance is approximately 80 mm, the heat input to the leading range is often not ideal, but it may be considered sufficient for some applications with good crash safety.

[0118] The smaller the flow distance selected, the more optimal the heat input can be.

[0119] Preferably, the flow distance in the leading range and / or trailing range is 30 mm or less, preferably 20 mm or less, or particularly preferably 10 mm or less. Therefore, the flow distance in the leading range of the metal product corresponds to the flow distance often set in the central range of the metal product that is subsequently positioned in the leading range.

[0120] As has been shown in actual tests, it is possible to establish a sufficiently reliable safety distance between the coil and the metal component, especially in the leading and / or trailing ranges, even when the flow distance is 30 mm or less, 20 mm or less, or 5 mm or less.

[0121] In this respect, it is particularly advantageous if the flow distance along the metal product can be adjusted so that the flow distance in the leading range of the metal product corresponds to the flow distance set in the central range of the metal product subsequently positioned in the leading range, because this allows for the setting of uniform efficiency in the metal product, especially throughout the entire metal product.

[0122] If the flow distance between the leading edge of a metal object and the adjacent central edge of the metal object has a distance deviation of 20% or less, preferably 10% or less, and particularly preferably 5% or less, then it is possible to heat the metal object particularly effectively from the leading edge to the trailing edge.

[0123] In order to effectively utilize a flow distance that is advantageous in the sense of the present invention, it is particularly advantageous if the induction heating device has a flow mode that is operated before and / or while the end face of the metal part reaches the coil, particularly the operating range of the coil.

[0124] This makes it possible to individually adjust the induction heating device to suit each processing application.

[0125] For example, there may be special applications where this flow distance should not be adjusted in metal parts, such as when a larger safety distance is desired in the leading range, or when heat treatment in the leading range should not be performed, or should only be performed to a limited extent.

[0126] Depending on the desired application, the flow mode can be easily activated or deactivated.

[0127] In this case, the flow mode can be activated manually by an operator, for example, or it can be activated automatically independently of the operator.

[0128] Flow mode and its additional functions alone can advantageously extend and further develop the operating modes of conventional induction heating devices.

[0129] Flow modes can be implemented, for example, using appropriate software and / or appropriate hardware components, and using a properly configured control unit.

[0130] It is particularly advantageous if the induction heating device has an operating position, from which a flow distance is set and / or the coil is operated, and the operating position is located in front of and / or within the coil, particularly in front of or within the operating range of the coil.

[0131] This operating position ensures that the leading area is heat-treated to the same extent as the adjacent areas of the metal part, thereby guaranteeing operational reliability.

[0132] Advantageously, the operating position allows for the direct switching of the aforementioned flow modes of the induction heating device, enabling / deactivating them.

[0133] It is also advantageous if the operating position can be variably displaced or adjusted.

[0134] Therefore, for example, it is advantageous if the operating position is positioned in front of the coil, particularly in front of the coil's operating range, with an introduction distance of 10 mm or more, preferably 50 mm or more, or especially preferably 100 mm or more.

[0135] Using such an introduction distance, sufficient time remains in the induction heating device to displace the coil to the appropriate vertical coil position, so that the precise flow distance to the leading edge is available before and / or during the leading edge entry of the coil.

[0136] In this case, it is advantageous if the operating position can be positioned sufficiently far from and in front of the coil, depending on the process parameters of the production line.

[0137] In this respect, it would be advantageous if the introduction distance could be adjusted as needed.

[0138] For example, in order to avoid excessively premature operation in the sense of the present invention, so as to save energy for operating the coil, it is advantageous if the operating position is located in front of the coil, particularly in front of the coil's operating range, with an introduction distance of 1000 mm or less, preferably 500 mm or less, or particularly preferably 200 mm or less.

[0139] If the introduction distance can be adjusted depending on the dimensions of the metal product, particularly its thickness, and / or the shape deviation of the metal product, particularly its leading edge range, and / or the conveying speed of the metal product, or similar factors, then the operating position here can be selected particularly favorably.

[0140] It would be even more desirable if the induction heating apparatus were characterized by a control device so as to be advantageous in the sense of the present invention, the coil flow distance of the coil, in particular with respect to the metal object, and especially its leading edge, can be adjusted using the control device, depending on identified data from a sensing device for detecting information about the metal object.

[0141] Using a control device, it is possible to, for example, automatically pre-select an appropriate introduction distance, or to adjust the operating position related to it in the induction heating device.

[0142] For this purpose, for example, the control device can access internal process data regarding the metal product currently to be processed and initiate control accordingly.

[0143] If the above adjustments can also be made based on identified data from the detection device for detecting information about metal objects, the control device can operate particularly accurately and up-to-date.

[0144] In any case, using the control device described here, it is possible to adjust the vertical position of the coil without any problems in order to achieve optimal heat input to the metal part, especially its leading edge, before the leading edge enters the coil's operating range and / or while it is entering the range.

[0145] In this case, the appropriate detection or sensor device is positioned upstream, i.e., in the direction of transport of the metal product, before the induction heating device, and especially before the coil.

[0146] Therefore, generally, the control device is configured to take into account the geometric profile of the metal part and adjust the flow distance between the metal part and the coil, especially the minimum distance, along the metal part, and in particular, to adjust it continuously.

[0147] In the context of this invention, the term "geometric profile" in relation to metal products refers to the profile on the surface side of the metal product, and this expression can be understood as a deformation such as a corrugated profile or something similar, or as a small defect directly present on the surface of the metal product.

[0148] The term "geometric profile" explicitly also refers to a profile that can be averaged, particularly in the central range of a metal product, i.e., between the leading and trailing ranges. In this respect, it does not refer only to the leading or trailing range of the metal product, where the leading range represents the entry point of the metal product into the coil and the trailing range represents the derivation end.

[0149] In this case, the geometric profile may arise from shape deviations, particularly irregular shape deviations such as protrusions, or deformations such as wavy profiles or similar forms. Here, such shape deviations may exist even when the thickness of the metal part is uniform or only slightly varied over its length.

[0150] In this case, the appropriate detection device may be a component or group of components of the induction heating device, or alternatively, it may be an external component or group of external components that is appropriately connected to the induction heating device, particularly to the control device.

[0151] Here, the term "detection device" or "sensor device" refers to a device for detecting the relative position of a metal object, particularly the surface side of a metal object, with respect to an induction heating device, in particular the coils of the induction heating device, or the relative position within the operating range defined by at least one coil of the induction heating device.

[0152] The detection device can also accurately and continuously identify the geometric profile of a metal object, particularly along its entire length, as the metal object passes through the device.

[0153] In this case, the detection device can be implemented in different ways, for example, optically, particularly laser-optically, acoustically, inductively, mechanically by contact, or similar means.

[0154] Therefore, it is possible to identify a surface profile or geometric profile, preferably in front of the coil, using an imaging method. Based on the identified surface profile or geometric profile, it is possible to position the coil advantageously relative to a metal product, for example, to achieve optimal electrical efficiency with respect to the metal product.

[0155] In addition to, or instead of, this can be used to continuously perform a series of surface scans, which makes it possible to create a surface profile or geometric profile of a metal part, preferably in the coil or immediately before it, in real time and with particular accuracy.

[0156] In some cases, even if the detection device operates discontinuously, it may already be sufficient to determine a sufficiently accurate geometric profile.

[0157] For example, with respect to so-called ski-like deformation or similar deformation, it is advantageous to detect the relative position on the shorter side, especially the leading edge, so that significant positional deviations in the leading edge range of the metal product can be identified early. Subsequently, such detection allows for at least pre-adjustment of the coil for the product to be heated, so that the coil can be adjusted more quickly for the longer side of the metal product.

[0158] In any case, using this induction heating device, ideally, the optimal electrical efficiency can always be adjusted for metal objects, as the advantageous distance between the coil and the metal object can always be well adjusted at all points along the long side of the metal object and at all times.

[0159] In this case, the detection device can be directly positioned on the induction heating device, for example, its frame, housing, or a similar part, and in that respect, it may also come into contact with the coil, for example.

[0160] However, instead, the sensor device can also be placed upstream of the coil, when viewed in the direction of transport.

[0161] Advantageously, the detection device has an operating range, and the expression "operating range" in relation to the detection device is understood to mean the operating connection between the detection device and the metal object.

[0162] It would be advantageous if a detection device could be used to identify target values ​​for operational parameters related to flow distance for metal parts, such as the thickness of the metal part.

[0163] In this regard, the target value may preferably be the thickness of the slab, the thickness of the bar, the thickness of the metal strip, or something similar.

[0164] For example, this can be done by a detection device that is appropriately configured or positioned, preferably located before or upstream of the coil, or, in addition to or instead of this, by using process data from a processing process carried out upstream, for example. However, the corresponding data for the target value can be based on production plan data.

[0165] For example, by assuming target values ​​for the relevant geometric parameters of the metal product, it is possible to favorably position the coil relative to the surface of the metal product.

[0166] If the specified deviations of the relevant geometric parameters are below the critical tolerance, the metal object can pass through the coil, which is positioned optimally from the standpoint of electrical efficiency.

[0167] However, if the identified deviations of the relevant geometric parameters are above the critical tolerance, the coil position can be appropriately adjusted to allow collision-free passage of the product part having the geometric deviation.

[0168] In addition, the "corresponding side" of a metal part is understood to be the surface side of the metal part that directly faces each sensor device or coil.

[0169] This means, for example, that the upper side of the metal part is directly facing the upper coil of the induction heating device, and the lower side of the metal part is correspondingly facing the lower coil of the induction heating device.

[0170] In this regard, it is advantageous if the detection device is configured to detect information about the shape and / or position of the metal object, particularly information about the shape and / or position of the leading and / or trailing range of the metal object relative to the reference structure, which would allow the control device to operate more accurately.

[0171] In the context of this invention, the term "reference structure" refers, for example, to a reference plane or operating plane in this induction heating device, along which a metal object passes and moves in the coil.

[0172] Such operating planes preferably extend in the mechanical direction of the induction heating device, along that mechanical direction, and preferably through the operating range of the coils of the induction heating device.

[0173] Preferably, the operating plane of the induction heating device coincides with the conveying plane of the conveying section or the conveying plane of a corresponding roller conveyor in the production line.

[0174] In this respect, the standard structure can also be defined by such a transport plane.

[0175] The conveying plane can also be achieved, for example, by the belt tension of the conveyor system or something similar.

[0176] In this case, the reference structure can, advantageously, be used, for example, to transform absolute coordinates to relative coordinates.

[0177] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the detection device is configured to detect information about the speed of the metal object relative to the reference structure.

[0178] Information regarding this could contribute to enabling the control system to operate more accurately.

[0179] In any case, it was found that the reference structure includes the induction heating device, and as a result, it is advantageous if the reference plane can be directly provided by the induction heating device.

[0180] As already mentioned above, it is advantageous if the detection device is positioned upstream of the induction heating coil, allowing the corresponding information and data to be detected or identified locally and in a timely manner, and provided to the public.

[0181] The problems of the present invention are further solved by an operating method for induction heating a metal product using an induction heating device, wherein the metal product passes through at least one coil of the induction heating device, and is heat-treated by a magnetic field generated by at least one coil, and the metal product receives a load with uniform efficiency between the coil and the metal product in its leading range and adjacent central range.

[0182] Advantageously, the proposed operating method allows for processing of metal products with the same electrical efficiency from the front end surface to the central area of ​​the metal product, or preferably to the rear area of ​​the metal product. Therefore, it is possible to significantly increase production volume compared to conventional methods using this proposed operating method.

[0183] The problem of the present invention is solved by an operating method for induction heating a metal product using an induction heating device, wherein the metal product passes through at least one coil of the induction heating device, is heat-treated by a magnetic field generated by at least one coil, and the flow distance between the coil and the metal product is adjusted so that the flow distance is the same in the leading range of the metal product and in the central range of the adjacent metal product.

[0184] Advantageously, as the leading edge of the metal product enters the operating range at the latest, the coil is brought to an operating distance, particularly an optimal operating distance, i.e., a flow distance, and using this flow distance, the leading edge can be heat-treated in the same way as, or at least substantially the same way as, the rest of the metal product. Thus, the product material consisting of the leading edge can be used further later in the same manner as, for example, the product material consisting of the central edge of the metal product.

[0185] Advantageously, in the operating method proposed herein, the induction heating device is already inductively activated (operating position) before, or by entry, a metal object enters, in particular, the operating range of at least one coil.

[0186] It is particularly advantageous if the uniformly generated electrical efficiency between the coil and the metal part and / or the adjusted flow distance between the coil and the metal part have a deviation of at most 20%, preferably 10%, or especially preferably 5% in the leading range and the adjacent central range, because this makes it possible to manufacture metal parts that can be used seamlessly.

[0187] In this case, as long as the quality of the heat treatment is within acceptable limits, insignificant variations in electrical efficiency and flow distance can be ignored.

[0188] In one variant of the method, it is advantageous if the electrical efficiency generated uniformly between the coil and the metal product and / or the flow distance adjusted between the coil and the metal product are always the same along the entire metal product.

[0189] The expression "always identical" is understood to mean that, ideally, the flow distance within the range of the metal part is identical at each point along the entire length of the metal part with respect to its longitudinal extension, or at least one point at every 1 / 10 L, preferably at least one point at every 1 / 100 L, and more preferably at least one point at every 1 / 1000 L, where L represents, for example, the entire length of the metal part corresponding to an actual or hypothetical length segment of the product to be manufactured.

[0190] If the flow distance adjusted between the coil and the metal part is 80 mm or less, preferably 60 mm or less, or particularly preferably 40 mm or less in the leading range and / or trailing range, the method can be operated in an inherently energy-efficient manner.

[0191] This makes it possible to heat-treat that area to the same or at least similar degree as the central area of ​​the metal product.

[0192] Not limited to this embodiment, it is particularly advantageous if the coil is moved to a vertical coil position on the induction heating device, and the flow distance between the coil and the metal part is 30 mm or less, preferably 20 mm or less, or especially preferably 15 mm or less, before and / or while the metal part, in particular its leading edge, enters the coil, in particular the operating range of the coil.

[0193] In this case, preferably, the flow distance is reduced as much as possible, as long as significant contact between the coil and the metal part is avoided.

[0194] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the flow distance between the coil and the metal part, particularly its leading edge, is specified in the leading edge range of the coil, or before and / or while the leading edge range enters the operating range of the coil.

[0195] This ensures that the flow distance is already adjusted when a metal object enters the coil or its operating range.

[0196] In this relationship, a specified flow distance can be mentioned.

[0197] To enable heat treatment to begin without delay at the beginning of the metal part, it is advantageous if the leading range is determined in the coil, or before and / or while entering the operating range of the coil, by the shape of the leading range and / or the position of the leading range relative to a reference structure such as a reference plane.

[0198] For this reason, it is advantageous for the leading range to be displaced to a vertical coil position in order to obtain optimal electrical efficiency and / or optimal flow distance in the coil, or before and / or while entering the operating range of the coil.

[0199] The same applies to variations of a favorable method in which the first vertical coil position (starting position) of the coil in an induction heating device is adjusted depending on a specified flow distance. This is because it allows the coil to be optimally adjusted from the outset for the leading range of the metal part.

[0200] The induction heating device can be advantageously adjusted for the next heat treatment, provided that the first vertical coil position of the coil is set relative to the operating position of the induction heating device in front of the coil.

[0201] If the operating position is variably adjusted depending on the dimensions of the metal part, particularly its thickness, the shape of the metal part, and / or the leading range of the metal part and / or the conveying speed of the metal part relative to the coil, it is possible to reliably displace the coil to the correct vertical coil position before the leading range reaches the coil.

[0202] A similar situation occurs when, before and / or during the leading edge of the coil enters the coil or the coil's operating range, the coil is displaced to a vertical coil position or flow distance for optimal efficiency.

[0203] Such optimal efficiency for coils and metal parts can be achieved, in particular, by setting the flow distance as small as possible while simultaneously avoiding collisions between the coils and metal parts.

[0204] If the magnetic field of the coil is actuated on the coil or the coil's operating range before and / or while the leading edge of the metal product enters the heat, the heat treatment of the metal product can be achieved more efficiently in this induction heating apparatus.

[0205] It should be noted here that the method described herein can be further supplemented by other technical features described herein, particularly those of the apparatus, in order to either further develop the method advantageously or to describe or express the specifications of the method more precisely.

[0206] In particular, this induction heating apparatus can be operated advantageously by one of the methods described herein.

[0207] Furthermore, the problems of the present invention are solved by a production line equipped with an induction heating device having one of the features proposed herein for manufacturing and / or processing semi-finished products and / or primary products and / or intermediate products and / or finished products consisting of metal products, particularly iron materials, steel materials and / or non-ferrous metal materials.

[0208] In a production line equipped with this induction heating device, metal parts can be heat-treated much more uniformly along the entire length of each metal part.

[0209] It goes without saying that this production line can be equipped with processing devices for mechanically processing metal products, or with multiple processing devices that operate identically or differently.

[0210] For this purpose, the metal products are transported along a transport section of the production line or a correspondingly configured roller conveyor.

[0211] Furthermore, it goes without saying that the production line may also be equipped with other processing or manufacturing devices, such as separation devices, winding devices, individualization devices, or similar devices.

[0212] The problems of the present invention are also solved by using the induction heating apparatus that forms the basis of the present invention by one of the features and / or operating methods and / or production lines described herein.

[0213] Additional features or combinations of features of other advantageous embodiments of the present invention, as well as their effects and advantages, are described below.

[0214] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the control device is configured to continuously set the minimum distance between the metal part and the coil, particularly a first minimum distance, in the central range between the leading and trailing ranges of the metal part.

[0215] In particular, the optimal distance adjustment of the coil relative to the metal object has been neglected until now, especially in the central range of metal objects. However, advantageously, this induction heating device makes it possible to set an advantageous distance even in the central range of metal objects to consistently achieve optimal electrical efficiency. This makes it possible to achieve particularly uniform heating along the entire length of the metal object.

[0216] This is especially true when the sensor device operates continuously, because it allows for reliable detection of any disturbances related to the metal object within the central range, and as a result, more reliable assurance of uniform heating within that range.

[0217] If the induction heating device further comprises a second coil, in particular a second coil of a second resonant circuit for generating a magnetic field for heating a metal product, the second coil being supported so as to be displaceable in the vertical direction and to which electrical energy can be supplied by an energy supply device, an adjustment device for adjusting the position of the second coil along the vertical direction, in particular a second adjustment device, and a sensor device, in particular a second sensor device having a second range of action positioned in front of the second coil with respect to the transport direction of the metal product, then it is possible to heat the metal product more advantageously and in particular to heat treat it more uniformly, in particular the second sensor device is gold The second sensor device is positioned in front of the second coil with respect to the accessory transport direction, and is data-connected to the control device in order to detect the second geometric profile of the metal product on the side of the metal product corresponding to the second coil, in particular to detect the second geometric profile of the metal product with respect to a reference plane, the control device is configured to control the vertical position of the second coil in open-loop and / or closed-loop control, and the control device is configured to adjust the second minimum distance between the metal product and the second coil along the metal product, in particular in the central range of the metal product, taking into account the second geometric profile of the metal product, in particular to adjust it continuously.

[0218] In this case, the second adjustment device can be implemented as an independent device in the induction heating device, or alternatively, the second adjustment device is a structural component of the first adjustment device.

[0219] The situation is similar for the second sensor device, which is either an independent device in the induction heating device or, in its place, is set as a structural component of the first sensor device.

[0220] In this case, the second coil can preferably be positioned on the side of the metal part opposite to the side corresponding to the first coil.

[0221] In this case, the second geometric profile can also be favorably associated with the aforementioned reference plane.

[0222] This induction heating device can be operated with particularly favorable electrical efficiency if the minimum distance along the metal object, especially in the central area of ​​the metal object, particularly the first minimum distance and / or the second minimum distance, is 50 mm or less, preferably 40 mm or less, and especially preferably 30 mm or less.

[0223] If the minimum distance is 20 mm or less, preferably 15 mm or less, and especially preferably 10 mm or less, the induction heating device can be operated more effectively. In this respect, it is possible to achieve particularly efficient heating of metal objects, which is due in part to the still small gap between the coil and the metal object.

[0224] Furthermore, it is particularly advantageous if the minimum distance along the metal object, especially in the central area of ​​the metal object, particularly the first minimum distance and / or the second minimum distance, is greater than 0 mm, preferably 2 mm or more, and especially preferably 5 mm or more. This ultimately ensures the safety of the induction heating device against collisions with metal objects, and correspondingly, greater safety due to larger minimum distances is always accompanied by lower electrical resistance.

[0225] If the difference between the first minimum distance and the second minimum distance is 5 mm or less, preferably 3 mm or less, and particularly preferably 1 mm or less, then it is possible to achieve particularly uniform heating of the metal product.

[0226] This essentially allows for the setting of essentially the same minimum distance on both sides of the metal object, which enables the application of equivalent magnetic fields to the metal object on both sides, thus achieving equivalent heating of the metal object on both sides.

[0227] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the first coil is configured to heat the metal product using transverse magnetic field induction, and / or if the first and second coils are configured to heat the metal product using transverse magnetic field induction and / or longitudinal magnetic field induction.

[0228] In a system with a single first coil positioned on only one side of a metal object, the induction heating device can be made more compact. However, in this case, only lateral magnetic field induction can be achieved.

[0229] When using two coils, for example, by vibrating the first coil and the second coil with a phase difference from each other, particularly with a phase difference of 180°, it is possible to achieve both transverse and longitudinal magnetic field induction.

[0230] In a preferred embodiment, the control device is configured to set a minimum leading distance between the metal part and the coil, particularly the first coil and / or the second coil, within the leading range of the metal part.

[0231] This further improves the uniform heating of the leading edge of the metal part relative to the rest of the metal part, thereby enabling the achievement of more consistent quality in products manufactured from the metal part. Consequently, it is also possible to significantly reduce the defect rate.

[0232] Similarly, in the leading range of a metal product, there is almost always a larger predictable deformation deviation, for example, due to cutting of a casting strand using a cutting device or similar methods.

[0233] This is often the case, for example, in discontinuous production such as batch operations, in which case metal parts are processed intermittently, particularly heat-treated, and passed through induction heating equipment in batches.

[0234] However, significant deformation deviations can also occur due to other deformation patterns, such as ski-like deformation in the leading or trailing range of a metal product and / or wavy deformation, particularly in the central range of the metal product.

[0235] In this regard, it is advantageous if, in an induction heating device having multiple coils, such as an upper coil and a lower coil, the control device is configured to set a minimum tail distance between the metal product and the coils, particularly the first coil and / or the second coil, within the tail range of the metal product.

[0236] This also improves the uniform heating of the tail portion of the metal part compared to the rest of the metal part, thereby enabling the achievement of more consistent quality in products manufactured from the metal part. Consequently, it is possible to significantly reduce the defect rate, in particular.

[0237] The collision safety of this induction heating device can be further improved if the minimum leading distance in the leading range of the metal product, particularly the first minimum leading distance and / or the second minimum leading distance, and / or the minimum trailing distance in the trailing range of the metal product, particularly the first minimum trailing distance and / or the second minimum trailing distance, are 1.1 times, preferably 1.2 times, and especially preferably 1.3 times greater than the minimum distance in the central range of the metal product, particularly the first minimum distance and / or the second minimum distance.

[0238] The coefficients selected in this manner are particularly advantageous because larger deviations in the geometric profile are expected in the leading and trailing ranges compared to the intermediate range of metal products located between them.

[0239] For example, larger coefficient values ​​such as 1.4, 1.5, or 1.75 can achieve further improved crash safety, but this comes at the expense of the achievable electrical efficiency that can be uniformly achieved along the metal parts.

[0240] When the leading edge range includes 15% or less, preferably 10% or less, and particularly preferably 7.5% or less of the longitudinal extension of the metal product, it is possible to have a favorable effect on more even and uniform heating of the metal product.

[0241] A similar situation occurs when the leading range includes 12.5% ​​or less, preferably 5% or less, and particularly preferably 2.5% or less of the longitudinal extension of the metal product.

[0242] It is equally advantageous when the trailing range includes 15% or less, preferably 10% or less, and particularly preferably 7.5% or less, of the longitudinal extension of the metal product.

[0243] A similar situation occurs when the trailing range includes 12.5% ​​or less, preferably 5% or less, and particularly preferably 2.5% or less of the longitudinal extension of the metal product.

[0244] Furthermore, it is advantageous to operate an induction heating device for heating metal products, in particular semi-finished products and / or primary products and / or intermediate products and / or finished products, using a coil, in particular a first coil, and an induction heating device having one of the features described herein, having the following steps. The determination of the geometric profile of a metal product, particularly a first geometric profile, by a sensor device, particularly a first sensor device, on the side of the metal product corresponding to the coil, particularly the determination of the geometric profile of the metal product with respect to a reference plane, particularly with respect to a reference plane of a conveying device for conveying the metal product, particularly the determination of the target thickness of the metal product, wherein the range of operation of the sensor device, particularly the first range of operation, is positioned in front of the coil with respect to the conveying direction of the metal product. - Adjusting the position of the coil, in particular the position of the first coil, along the vertical direction, in particular, continuously, by an adjustment device, in particular the first adjustment device, taking into consideration the geometric profile of the metal part for adjusting the minimum distance between the metal part and the coil, in particular the first minimum distance, in the central range between the leading range and the trailing range of the metal part.

[0245] As already mentioned above, the method described here makes it possible to significantly improve the production volume of product parts or product materials for metal products that have been induction-heated using an induction heating device.

[0246] In particular, to achieve optimal results from the standpoint of electrical efficiency, the minimum distance may be the same as the optimal distance.

[0247] It is particularly advantageous that the minimum distance to the leading edge of the metal component is set in the coil before and / or while the leading edge enters the coil. This ensures that the leading edge is also loaded with optimal electrical efficiency.

[0248] In a modified version of the advantageous method, an alternative operating method is envisioned for operating an induction heating device for heating a metal object, wherein the induction heating device comprises a second coil, and the alternative operating method comprises the following steps:

[0249] - Determining the second geometric profile of a metal product by a sensor device, particularly a second sensor device, on the side of the metal product corresponding to the second coil, in particular determining the second geometric profile of the metal product with respect to a reference plane, particularly with respect to a reference plane of a conveying device for conveying the metal product, wherein the second operating range of the sensor device is positioned in front of the second coil with respect to the conveying direction of the metal product. - Adjusting the position of the second coil vertically, in particular continuously, by an adjusting device, especially a second adjusting device, within the central range of the metal part, taking into account the second geometric profile of the metal part for adjusting the second minimum distance between the metal part and the coil.

[0250] By using a modified version of this alternative method, metal articles can be heated more advantageously, and in particular, more uniformly heat-treated.

[0251] In particular, when using two coils, it is possible to induce both a lateral magnetic field and a longitudinal magnetic field by, for example, oscillating the first coil and the second coil with a phase difference between them, especially with a phase difference of 180°.

[0252] The advantageous minimum distance in the sense of the present invention can be set method-technically easily and precisely in the leading range when the operating method further features the following method steps. - Adjusting the position of the first coil and / or the position of the second coil along the vertical direction, particularly continuously, by an adjustment device, particularly the first adjustment device and / or the second adjustment device, within the leading range of the metal part, taking into consideration the first geometric profile and / or second geometric profile of the metal part for adjusting the minimum leading distance, particularly the first minimum leading distance and / or the second minimum leading distance.

[0253] This method of operation is equally advantageous if it is further characterized by the following additional method steps. - Adjusting the position of the first coil and / or the position of the second coil along the vertical direction, particularly continuously, by an adjustment device, particularly the first adjustment device and / or the second adjustment device, taking into account the first geometric profile and / or second geometric profile of the metal part for adjusting the minimum tail distance, particularly the first minimum tail distance and / or second minimum tail distance.

[0254] Induction heating devices for heating semi-finished products and / or primary products and / or intermediate products and / or finished products made of metal products, especially iron materials, steel materials and / or non-ferrous metal materials, are also advantageous. The induction heating device is equipped with a resonant circuit for generating a magnetic field to heat metal objects. The resonant circuit includes a capacitor and an inductor. The induction heating device is equipped with an energy supply device for supplying electrical energy to the resonant circuit. The induction heating device is equipped with an adjustment device for adjusting the position of the coil along the vertical direction. The induction heating device is equipped with a sensor device for detecting the geometric profile of metal objects. The induction heating device includes a control device for open-loop and / or closed-loop control of the vertical position of the coil, the control device is data-connected to a sensor device, and the control device is configured to control the vertical position of the coil in an open-loop and / or closed-loop manner. The induction heating apparatus is configured to perform a method according to one of the features described herein.

[0255] Using such an advantageous induction heating device, the effects and benefits described at the beginning can also be achieved.

[0256] Advantageously, this makes it possible to produce uniform electrical efficiency and the associated particularly uniform heating over the entire length of the metal part, particularly including the leading edge range of the metal part and preferably the trailing edge range of the metal part.

[0257] In this regard, it is advantageous if the coil can be controlled in an open-loop or closed-loop manner so that the distance between the coil and the metal product can always be adjusted from the end face into which the metal product enters to the end face into which the metal product exits, so that the metal product can be processed with the desired, and especially optimal, electrical efficiency.

[0258] This makes it possible to continuously adapt the induction heating device to particularly uneven geometric profiles, even when irregularities occur only partially along the entire length of the metal product.

[0259] Therefore, in the sense of the present invention, it is possible to continuously correct the position of the coil, particularly its vertical height, relative to the metal part, so that uniform electrical efficiency can always be maintained.

[0260] In this regard, it is possible to continuously correct the position of the induction heating device relative to the metal product, depending on the geometric profile of the metal product, so that uniform electrical efficiency can always be maintained in the sense of the present invention.

[0261] In this regard, it is also advantageous if the control device is configured to be able to correct the position of the induction heating device, particularly the position of its coil, relative to the metal object or reference plane, depending on the geometric profile of the metal object, so as to be able to always maintain the minimum distance in the sense of the present invention.

[0262] In particular, the induction heating apparatus described above can be further advantageously supplemented by other features described herein.

[0263] In order to cumulatively achieve the advantages and effects that can be attained here, the features of the solutions described above, or in each claim, can generally be combined.

[0264] Further advantages, details, and features of the present invention will become even clearer from the embodiments described below.

[0265] In each figure, components whose functions are at least substantially the same can be identified by the same reference numeral; therefore, it is not necessary to refer to and describe those components in all figures. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0266] [Figure 1] This is a schematic first side view of an induction heating apparatus for heating metal objects, with the metal objects shown before they enter the induction heating apparatus. [Figure 2] This diagram schematically shows another side view of the induction heating apparatus shown in Figure 1, with the metal object being depicted as it passes through the induction heating apparatus. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0267] The induction heating device 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2 is for heating a metal object 2, which has a target thickness 2A and an end face 2B.

[0268] The induction heating device 1 includes two resonant circuits 3 and 4 for generating a magnetic field (not shown) for heating the metal object 2.

[0269] The two resonant circuits 3 and 4 are supplied with electrical energy by an appropriate energy supply device 5 of the induction heating device 1. Resonant circuit 3 is equipped with a coil 6, and resonant circuit 4 is equipped with a coil 7.

[0270] For better clarity, all cable connections in the induction heating device 1, particularly those for energy supply and data lines between individual components, are not shown.

[0271] The induction heating device 1 has an operating range 8 with respect to coils 6 and 7, and the metal object 2 is guided through this operating range 8 for heat treatment.

[0272] In this case, the operating range 8 is located below the first coil 6 and above the second coil 7, and such an operating range 8 of the induction heating device 1 can be achieved by only one coil 6 or 7.

[0273] The first coil 6 is the upper coil (not numbered again) of the induction heating device 1, and this upper coil is positioned above the central position 9 of the induction heating device 1, which directly realizes a good reference structure 9A or reference plane (not numbered again) in the induction heating device. The second coil 7 is the lower coil (not numbered again) of the induction heating device 1, and this lower coil is positioned correspondingly below the central position 9.

[0274] A central position 9 and, in this respect, a reference structure 9A are positioned between the two coils 6 and 7, and the metal product 2 is transported forward in the transport direction 10, that is, from left to right, along the central position 9 through the induction heating device 1, as shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0275] Here, the transport direction 10 indicates the mechanical direction 11 of the induction heating device 1.

[0276] In this case, the center position 9 is defined by the operating plane (not numbered again) of the induction heating device 1. Alternatively, the center position 9 can be defined by the roller conveyor plane (not shown) of a roller conveyor (not shown), or by a conveying device (not shown) for transporting metal products 2 of the production line 12, which is not shown in detail here.

[0277] Coils 6 and 7 are each supported so as to be displaceable in the vertical direction 14 independently of each other, and therefore their height is adjustable.

[0278] The induction heating device 1 is equipped with an adjustment device 16 for adjusting the height of the coils 6 and 7.

[0279] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the metal part 2 has a normal target thickness 2A and a discontinuous geometric profile 18 having a shape deviation 19 in the leading range 21 of the metal part 2 on the one hand and another shape deviation 22 in the central range 24 of the metal part 2 that follows the leading range 21 on the other hand.

[0280] In addition, the induction heating device 1 is further equipped with a detection device or sensor device 26, which is positioned in front of each coil 6 or 7, i.e., upstream of the coils 6 and 7, when viewed in the transport direction 10.

[0281] In this respect, the detection device or sensor device 26 can reliably detect the geometric profile 18 of the metal object 2 on its surface side 28, 30 before the metal object 2 enters the coil range or operating range 8 of the coils 6, 7 in its leading range 21.

[0282] For this purpose, the detection device or sensor device 26 can "scan" the corresponding surface side 28 or 30 with respect to its respective operating range 32, 33, and in this case, it is possible to accurately detect the geometric profile 18 of the metal product 2 for all height differences 34.

[0283] Advantageously, the induction heating device 1 includes a control device 40 for open-loop and / or closed-loop control of the vertical position of the coil 6 or 7, the control device 40 is data-connected to a detection device or sensor device 26 to obtain data about the geometric profile 18 of the metal object 2.

[0284] The control device 40 is configured to adjust the flow distance 42 between the metal part 2 and each coil 6 or 7 along the metal part 2 and therefore along its longitudinal extension 41, taking into account the geometric profile 18 of the metal part 2, the flow distance 42 is characterized in particular by the smallest possible operating distance (not numbered again).

[0285] When coils 6 and 7 are continuously adjusted relative to each surface side 28 or 30, i.e., in "flow" relative to each geometric profile 18, it is possible to achieve particularly precise electrical efficiency with respect to coils 6 and 7.

[0286] The electrical efficiency between the coil 6 or 7 and the metal part 2 is, for example, identical along at least one portion 43 (described only illustratively) of the metal part (2), but preferably identical along the entire length of the metal part 2 (not described herein).

[0287] According to the illustration of FIG. 1, the coils 6 and 7 are adjusted with the minimum flow distance 42 with respect to the surface side 28 or 30 of the metal part 2 by using the data on the target thickness 2A of the metal part 2 before the metal part 2 enters the coil range at its leading end side 21. Therefore, the metal part 2 can be inductively heated as efficiently as possible on both sides.

[0288] In this embodiment, the induction heating device 1 has an operating position 45. From this operating position, the flow distance 42 for the leading range 21 can be optimally adjusted, and / or the coils 6 or 7 can be operated.

[0289] Also, the operating position 45 is arranged in front of each of the coils 6 or 7 with a variably adjustable introduction distance 46.

[0290] At this time, the induction device 1 can be automated such that when the leading range 21 reaches or exceeds the operating position 45, each of the coils 6 or 7 is moved to a vertical coil position 47 using the control device 40. Thus, the vertical coil position 47 can be regarded as the initial coil position 47 of the induction heating device 1, so to speak, the starting position (not numbered again) of each of the coils 6 or 7, so that the flow distance 42 in the sense of the specified flow distance 42 can already be maintained.

[0291] According to the illustration of FIG. 1, this means that when the end face 2B reaches the operating position 45, the coils 6 and 7 can be driven, and as a result, the coils 6 and 7 are adjusted to the optimal flow distance 42 respectively with respect to the shape deviations 19 in the leading range 21. At present, the flow distance 42 has been adjusted in advance with respect to the target thickness 2A of the metal part 2.

[0292] According to the illustration of FIG. 2, the coils 6 and 7 are already displaced vertically in the direction 48 from the metal part, and thus radially outward, depending on the detected geometric profile 18, particularly based on the shape deviation 19 in the leading range 21, so that they can be adjusted with respect to the shape deviations 19 and 22 by the flow distance 42.

[0293] Between the two shape deviations 19 and 22 on the first surface side 28, the coil 6 is moved closer again in the direction of the metal part 2 between them so that an advantageous flow distance 42 can be ensured there.

[0294] The first coil 6 according to the illustration in FIG. 2 is adjusted based on another shape deviation 22 in the central range 24 so as to have a minimum flow distance 42 with respect to the shape deviation 22, and the second coil 7 is at a set coil position 47 representing an optimal flow distance 42.

[0295] Here, the second coil 7 is moved again towards the metal part 2 following the direction 49 that has already been radially inward after the shape deviation 19 so as to return to the minimum flow distance 42 set in FIG. 1 immediately after the shape deviation 19.

[0296] When another shape deviation 22 passes through the first coil 6, the first coil 6 also moves again towards the metal part 2 and returns to the minimum flow distance 42 shown in FIG. 1.

[0297] Overall, this enables the induction heating device 1 to achieve particularly uniform heating over the entire length of the metal part 2, where the trailing range of the metal part 2 is not shown.

[0298] Here, it is explicitly pointed out that the features of the above-mentioned, or the solution means described in the claims and / or each figure, can also be combined, if appropriate, so as to cumulatively implement or achieve the described features, effects and advantages.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0299] 1 Induction heating device 2 Metal part 2A Target thickness 2B End face or end face side 3 First (upper) resonance circuit 4 Second (lower) resonance circuit 5. Energy supply device 6. The first (upper) coil 7. The second (lower) coil 8. Operating range 9 Center position 9A Reference structure or reference plane 10 Conveying direction 11 Machine direction 12 Production Lines 14 Vertical 16 Adjustment device 18 Geometric Profiles 19. Shape deviation 21. Starting range 22 Other Shape Deviations 24 Central Range 26 Detection device or sensor device 28 First (upper) surface 30 Second (lower) surface 32 First (upper) range of action 33. Second (lower) range of action 34. Height difference 40 Control device 41 Longitudinal extension 42. Flow distance or operating distance 43 parts 45 Operating position 46 Introduction distance 47 Vertical coil position 48. Direction away from metal objects 49. How to approach metal objects

Claims

1. An induction heating device (1) for inductively heating a metal object (2), comprising at least one resonant circuit (3, 4) including coils (6, 7) for generating a magnetic field that can interact with the metal object (2) within the operating range (8) of the coils (6, 7), and a mechanical direction (11) capable of transporting the metal object (2) through the operating range (8), wherein the coils (6, 7) are supported and arranged so as to be displaceable relative to the metal object (2) in a direction laterally with respect to the mechanical direction (11), An induction heating device (1) is characterized in that the coils (6, 7) are adjustable in flow distance (42) with respect to the surface side (28, 30) of the metal product (2) facing the coils (6, 7) before and / or while the metal product (2) enters the coils (6, 7) or the operating range (8) of the coils (6, 7), and that a uniform electrical efficiency can be generated along the metal product (2) using the flow distance.

2. The induction heating device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the electrical efficiency between the coils (6, 7) and the metal product (2) is always the same along the metal product (2), or has a deviation of at most 20% or less, preferably 10% or less, or particularly preferably 5% or less.

3. The induction heating device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the electrical efficiency between the coils (6, 7) and the metal part (2) is the same along the metal part (2), at least along the portion (43) of the metal part (2), or has a deviation of at most 20% or less, preferably 10% or less, and particularly preferably 5% or less, and the preferred portion (43) including the leading range (21) of the metal part (2) is at least 10% or 20%, preferably 30% or more of the total length of the metal part (2).

4. The induction heating device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the electrical efficiency between the coils (6, 7) and the metal part (2) is the same along the metal part (2), at least along the portion (43) of the metal part (2), or has a deviation of at most 20% or less, preferably 10% or less, and particularly preferably 5% or less, and the preferred portion (43) including the leading range (21) of the metal part (2) extends at least 200 mm, 500 mm, or 1000 mm behind the leading range (21).

5. The induction heating device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the flow distance (42) is 80 mm or less, preferably 60 mm or less, or particularly preferably 40 mm or less in the leading range (21) of the metal product (2) and / or in the trailing range of the metal product (2).

6. The induction heating device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the flow distance (42) is adjustable along the metal product (2) such that the flow distance (42) corresponds to the flow distance (42) set in the central range (24) of the metal product (2) that is subsequently arranged in the leading range (21) of the metal product (2).

7. The induction heating apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the flow distance (42) has a distance deviation of at most 20%, preferably at most 10%, or particularly preferably at most 5%, with respect to the leading range (21) of the metal product (2) and the adjacent central range (24) of the metal product (2).

8. The induction heating device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the induction heating device (1) has a flow mode that can be operated in particular before and / or while the end face (2B) of the metal product (2) reaches the operating range (8) of the coils (6, 7), in particular of the coils (6, 7).

9. The induction heating device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the induction heating device (1) has an operating position (45), the flow distance (42) is set from the operating position and / or the coils (6, 7) are operated, and the operating position (45) is positioned in front of and / or on the coils (6, 7), particularly in front of and / or on the operating range (8) of the coils (6, 7).

10. The induction heating device (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the operating position (45) is positioned in front of the coils (6, 7) with an introduction distance (46), particularly in front of the operating range (8) of the coils (6, 7), and the introduction distance (46) is 10 mm or more, preferably 50 mm or more, or particularly preferably 100 mm or more.

11. The induction heating device (1) according to 9 or 10, characterized in that the operating position (45) is positioned in front of the coils (6, 7) with an introduction distance (46), particularly in front of the operating range (8) of the coils (6, 7), and the introduction distance (46) is 1000 mm or less, preferably 500 mm or less, or particularly preferably 200 mm or less.

12. The induction heating device (1) according to claim 10 or 11 is characterized in that the introduction distance (46) is adjustable depending on the dimensions of the metal product (2), particularly the thickness (2A) of the metal product (2), and / or the shape deviation of the metal product (2), particularly the leading edge range (21) of the metal product (2), and / or the transport speed of the metal product (2) or the like.

13. An induction heating apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that a control device (40) is provided, and the vertical coil position (47) of the coils (6, 7), in particular with respect to the metal product (2), and especially to its leading edge range (21), can be adjusted using the control device, depending on identified data from a detection device (26) for detecting information about the metal product (2).

14. The induction heating apparatus (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that the detection device (26) is configured to detect information about the shape and / or position of the metal object (2), particularly information about the shape and / or position of the leading range (21) and / or trailing range of the metal object (2) relative to the reference structure (9A).

15. The induction heating apparatus (1) according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the detection device (26) is configured to detect information about the speed of the metal product (2) relative to the reference structure (9, 9A).

16. The induction heating device (1) according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the reference structure (9A) includes the device of the induction heating device (1).

17. The induction heating device (1) according to any one of claims 13 to 16, characterized in that the detection device (26) is located upstream of the coils (6, 7) of the induction heating device (1).

18. A method for inductively heating a metal product (2) using an induction heating device (1), wherein the metal product (2) passes through at least one coil (6, 7) of the induction heating device (1), and at this time is heat-treated by a magnetic field generated by the at least one coil (6, 7), and the metal product (2) receives a load with an electrical efficiency that is uniformly generated and acts between the coil (6, 7) and the metal product (2) in its leading range (21) and its adjacent central range (24).

19. A method for inductively heating a metal product (2) using an induction heating device (1), wherein the metal product (2) passes through at least one coil (6, 7) of the induction heating device (1), is heat-treated by a magnetic field generated by the at least one coil (6, 7), the flow distance (42) between the coil (6, 7) and the metal product (2) is adjusted, and the flow distance is the same in the leading range (21) of the metal product (2) and in the adjacent central range (24) of the metal product.

20. The operating method according to 18 or 19, characterized in that the electrical efficiency uniformly generated between the coils (6, 7) and the metal product (2) and / or the flow distance (42) adjusted between the coils (6, 7) and the metal product (2) has a deviation of at most 20% or less, preferably 10% or less, or particularly preferably 5% or less, in the leading range (21) and the adjacent central range (24).

21. The operating method according to any one of claims 18 to 20, characterized in that the electrical efficiency generated uniformly between the coils (6, 7) and the metal part (2) and / or the flow distance (42) adjusted between the coils (6, 7) and the metal part (2) is always the same along the entire metal part (2).

22. The operating method according to any one of claims 18 to 21, characterized in that the flow distance (42) adjusted between the coils (6, 7) and the metal part (2) is 80 mm or less, preferably 60 mm or less, or particularly preferably 40 mm or less in the leading range (21) and / or the trailing range.

23. The operating method according to any one of claims 18 to 22, characterized in that the flow distance (42) between the coil (6, 7) and the metal part (2), particularly its leading range (21), is specified before and / or while the leading range (21) enters the operating range (8) of the coil (6, 7) in the coil (6, 7).

24. The operating method according to any one of claims 18 to 23, characterized in that, before and during the leading range (21) enters the operating range (8) of the coils (6, 7), the flow distance (42) between the coils (6, 7) and the metal part (2) is determined depending on the shape of the leading range (21) and / or the position of the leading range (21) with respect to a reference structure (9A) such as a reference plane.

25. The operating method according to any one of claims 18 to 24, characterized in that the coils (6, 7) are displaced to a vertical coil position (47) in order to obtain optimal electrical efficiency and / or optimal flow distance (42) before and / or while the leading range (21) enters the operating range (8) of the coils (6, 7) in the coils (6, 7).

26. The operating method according to any one of claims 18 to 25, characterized in that the initial vertical coil position (47) (start position) of the coils (6, 7) in the induction heating device (1) is adjusted depending on the specified flow distance (42).

27. The operation method according to 26, characterized in that the initial vertical coil position (47) is adjusted from the operating position (45) of the induction heating device (1), and the operating position (45) is positioned in front of the coils (6, 7).

28. The operating position (45) is variably adjusted in particular depending on the dimensions of the metal product (2), in particular the thickness (2A) of the metal product (2), the shape deviation of the metal product (2), in particular the leading edge range (21) of the metal product (2), and / or the transport speed of the metal product (2) or the like, as described in 27.

29. The operating method according to any one of claims 18 to 28, characterized in that, before and / or while the leading range (21) enters the operating range (8) of the coils (6, 7), the coils (6, 7) move to a vertical coil position (47) or the flow distance (42) for optimal electrical efficiency.

30. The operating method according to any one of claims 18 to 29, characterized in that the magnetic field of the coils (6, 7) is activated in the coils (6, 7) or before and / or during the entry of the metal product (2), particularly its leading range (21), into the operating range (8) of the coils (6, 7).

31. A production line (12) for manufacturing and / or processing semi-finished products and / or primary products and / or intermediate products and / or finished products, comprising an induction heating device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the products are made of metal (2), particularly iron, steel and / or non-ferrous metal materials.

32. Use of the induction heating device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 17 and / or the operating method according to any one of claims 18 to 30 and / or the production line (12) according to claim 31.

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